1.GitHub is (again) having issues(GitHub is (again) having issues)
GitHub offers a developer newsletter that provides tips, technical guides, and best practices. It is sent twice a month and can be delivered directly to your inbox.
2.Where were you when goo.gl shutdown?(Where were you when goo.gl shutdown?)
On August 11, 2025, a commentary reflects on the decline of Google's URL shortening service, goo.gl, which launched in December 2009 as a stable and secure tool. Despite early optimism, the service was announced for shutdown in July 2024, highlighting issues like link rot and service discontinuation that have plagued URL shorteners.
The Archive Team, a group dedicated to preserving digital content, is mobilizing to save the millions of URLs affected by goo.gl's closure. They encourage anyone, regardless of technical skill, to participate in archiving these links. The process involves visiting goo.gl short links to find their original URLs, with an automated tool called Archive Team Warrior available for easy use.
Users can run the tool via command line or a virtual machine, and many have already contributed significantly to the effort. The urgency is high, as there are billions of links to save before the deadline. The author expresses motivation to help preserve internet history and ensure that past content remains accessible for future generations.
3.Why We Migrated from Neon to PlanetScale(Why We Migrated from Neon to PlanetScale)
Summary: Why OpenSecret Migrated from Neon to PlanetScale
OpenSecret, a company developing a confidential AI chat platform called Maple AI, decided to switch from Neon to PlanetScale for their database needs due to significant reliability issues. In May 2025, during Neon’s acquisition, OpenSecret experienced multiple database outages that lasted hours, hindering their service.
Key reasons for migrating included:
- Reliability Issues: Neon's “scale-to-zero” model resulted in slow database start-ups, which was unacceptable for an AI chat service that requires instant responses.
- Performance Challenges: OpenSecret lacked visibility into performance metrics, making it hard to debug issues.
- High Costs: Neon’s pricing structure increased with user engagement, leading to higher costs without adequate service.
OpenSecret evaluated various database options and chose PlanetScale for its focus on excellence in database technology. The migration was seamless, requiring no downtime and leading to improved performance and cost savings.
Key improvements after the migration to PlanetScale included:
- Performance: Consistent 1.0ms latency and significantly faster API response times.
- Cost: Reduced monthly expenses from $250 to $156 while gaining more reliable infrastructure.
- Observability: Enhanced tools for monitoring database performance, allowing better optimization without accessing user data.
Overall, the migration allowed OpenSecret to focus on developing their platform without worrying about database reliability, setting a strong foundation for future growth.
4.A Spellchecker Used to Be a Major Feat of Software Engineering(A Spellchecker Used to Be a Major Feat of Software Engineering)
No summary available.
5.Evaluating LLMs Playing Text Adventures(Evaluating LLMs Playing Text Adventures)
Summary: Evaluating LLMs Playing Text Adventures
In this article, the author discusses how to evaluate language models (LLMs) playing text adventure games. Initial attempts showed that many models performed poorly, leading to the idea of evaluating them based on achievements within a limited number of turns.
Key Evaluation Method:
- Set a turn limit for the LLMs and define specific achievements to measure progress.
- The achievements are clustered around the early game stages, with the LLM earning points based on how many it completes within the turn limit.
The evaluation revealed that LLMs often struggle with text adventures due to their open-ended nature, making it hard to measure progress accurately. The author suggests that while hint systems may help, they are not very effective.
Model Performance Results: The article presents a comparison of several LLMs across different games, with models like "Grok 4" and "Claude 4 Sonnet" showing varying levels of success. Notably, the cheaper "Gemini 2.5 Flash" model performed well relative to its cost.
Challenges in Ranking Models:
- Performance varied significantly depending on the game's difficulty.
- To account for this, the author proposes using regression analysis to adjust model rankings based on game difficulty.
Conclusion:
- The evaluation process for LLMs in text adventures is complex, requiring careful consideration of game structure and model capabilities.
- Overall, "Gemini 2.5 Flash" emerges as a strong candidate for cost-effective performance in text adventures, while many other models do not perform as well.
- The author expresses a desire to further explore model performance across more games, but notes the high cost of evaluation tokens as a barrier.
In summary, while LLMs can be evaluated in text adventures, their performance varies widely, and achieving consistent results remains a challenge.
6.Nexus: An Open-Source AI Router for Governance, Control and Observability(Nexus: An Open-Source AI Router for Governance, Control and Observability)
Summary of Nexus Introduction
Nexus is a new AI router designed to improve how AI agents work with various tools and language models. It acts as a central hub that simplifies connections to multiple Model Context Protocol (MCP) servers and intelligently routes requests to the best language model based on task needs, costs, and performance.
Key Features:
- MCP Server Aggregation: Nexus combines multiple MCP servers into one interface, making it easier for AI agents to access data and tools without managing each connection separately.
- Intelligent LLM Routing: It selects the best language model for a task by considering factors like type of task, speed, context requirements, and model availability.
Challenges Addressed:
- Context Management: Helps language models handle many tool options without confusion.
- Cost Efficiency: Reduces unnecessary expenses by strategically choosing models.
- Performance Monitoring: Provides insights into system performance for better decision-making.
- Security: Ensures secure routing of requests in line with governance policies.
Benefits of Using Nexus:
- Simplifies integration and reduces complexity.
- Offers real-time performance monitoring.
- Easily scales with new servers and models.
- Maintains reliability through failover mechanisms.
Next Steps: Nexus aims to enhance its features with advanced routing, real-time analytics, customizable rules, and improved security. It is designed to fit into existing AI workflows, supporting various applications like customer service bots and coding tools.
For more information or early access to features, interested users are encouraged to contact the Nexus team.
7.Training language models to be warm and empathetic makes them less reliable(Training language models to be warm and empathetic makes them less reliable)
AI developers are creating language models with friendly and caring personas for users seeking advice and companionship. However, making these models warmer can decrease their reliability, especially when users are vulnerable. Research on five different models showed that warmer responses led to a higher rate of errors (10-30% more), including spreading conspiracy theories and giving incorrect medical advice. These models were also more likely to validate wrong beliefs, particularly from sad users. This issue was consistent across various model types and occurred even when the models performed well on standard tests, highlighting a risk that current evaluation methods might miss. As AI systems become more common in our lives, there is a need to rethink how we develop and monitor them to ensure they don't negatively impact human relationships.
8.Australian court finds Apple, Google guilty of being anticompetitive(Australian court finds Apple, Google guilty of being anticompetitive)
No summary available.
9.StarDict sends X11 clipboard to remote servers(StarDict sends X11 clipboard to remote servers)
No summary available.
10.Modos Paper Monitor – Open-hardware e-paper monitor and dev kit(Modos Paper Monitor – Open-hardware e-paper monitor and dev kit)
Modos Tech Overview
Modos Tech is launching the Modos Paper Monitor, an open-hardware e-paper monitor and development kit designed for low-latency performance.
Funding Status
- Goal: $110,000
- Raised: $66,223 (60% funded)
- Backers: 86
- Deadline: Funding ends on September 18, 2025.
Product Features
- Refresh Rate: Fast 75 Hz with low latency.
- Compatible Systems: Works with Linux, macOS, and Windows via HDMI or USB.
- Screen Sizes: Available in 6-inch and 13-inch monochrome kits.
- Customization: Offers user-defined modes and APIs for tailored display experiences.
Technology Benefits
- E-paper displays are easy on the eyes, mimic paper aesthetics, save power, and provide high contrast visibility.
- Modos aims to overcome challenges like proprietary systems and high costs, promoting open standards for e-paper technology.
Development Kit
- Includes everything needed to create custom e-paper monitors.
- Allows the use of various existing e-paper screens.
- Features include low processing delay, multiple grayscale modes, and an API for control.
Community and Support
- Modos Tech is building a community around e-paper technology, encouraging collaboration and sharing through platforms like Discord and social media.
Manufacturing and Fulfillment
- The project has completed pre-production and plans to begin manufacturing after funding ends. Products will be shipped globally.
Pricing
- 6" Kit: $199
- 13" Kit: $599
- Free worldwide shipping is included.
Acknowledgments
- The project received partial funding from the NLnet Foundation and the NGI Zero Etrust Fund.
Modos Tech aims to create technology that enhances well-being by providing eye-friendly display solutions.
11.That viral video of a 'deactivated' Tesla Cybertruck is a fake(That viral video of a 'deactivated' Tesla Cybertruck is a fake)
A viral video claiming that a Tesla Cybertruck was remotely deactivated on a highway has been confirmed as fake. The video, posted by an Instagram user, showed a flashing warning message and claimed that Tesla shut down the vehicle due to unauthorized use in a music video. However, Tesla tweeted that the video is not real, stating, "That’s not our screen. Tesla does NOT disable vehicles remotely."
Discrepancies in the video included a cease-and-desist letter with incorrect details and a warning message that didn't match Tesla’s usual format. Despite these issues, the video gained traction on social media platforms like BlueSky and Reddit, feeding into negative sentiments about Tesla and Elon Musk.
12.Perplexity Makes Longshot $34.5B Offer for Chrome(Perplexity Makes Longshot $34.5B Offer for Chrome)
No summary available.
13.Wikipedia loses challenge against Online Safety Act(Wikipedia loses challenge against Online Safety Act)
Wikipedia has lost a legal challenge against new rules from the Online Safety Act that could require it to verify the identities of its users. The Wikimedia Foundation, which supports Wikipedia, argued that these rules could threaten the privacy and safety of its volunteer editors. Although the court rejected their challenge, it highlighted the need for the UK government and Ofcom (the communications regulator) to protect Wikipedia's operations.
The rules would classify Wikipedia as a "Category 1" site, which imposes stricter regulations that are intended for large social media companies. If classified as Category 1, Wikipedia would have to verify contributors' identities, which could reduce access to the site or disable key functions. The government believes it reasonably decided not to exempt Wikipedia from these regulations.
Despite the loss, there's still a possibility for future legal challenges if the regulations significantly impact Wikipedia's ability to operate. The court's decision leaves room for Wikimedia to seek exemptions from the stricter rules in the future.
14.Depot (YC W23) Is Hiring a Community and Events Manager (Remote)(Depot (YC W23) Is Hiring a Community and Events Manager (Remote))
Depot is rapidly expanding and transforming the software build industry. They are seeking a Community & Events Manager to oversee their in-person developer events, ranging from small meetups to large trade shows. This role is hands-on, requiring the manager to plan and execute events that resonate with developers, rather than coordinating with agencies.
Key responsibilities include:
- Managing Depot’s event strategy, including 2-3 major trade shows and smaller gatherings.
- Handling all logistics for trade shows, such as booth setup and staffing.
- Organizing developer social events like happy hours.
- Creating guidelines for efficient event planning.
- Collaborating with design to ensure events align with developer culture.
- Expanding Depot’s presence in relevant developer communities.
- Staying informed about community trends and important events.
- Measuring the impact of events beyond lead generation.
The ideal candidate should have at least 3 years of experience in running developer-focused events, strong logistical management skills, and familiarity with developer culture. They should be a clear communicator, comfortable working in a startup environment, and able to operate independently.
Depot promotes a remote work culture, values self-starters, transparency, data-driven decisions, helpfulness, and efficiency. They emphasize the importance of work-life balance while expecting team members to contribute meaningfully.
15.RISC-V single-board computer for less than 40 euros(RISC-V single-board computer for less than 40 euros)
A new RISC-V single-board computer called the StarFive Vision Five 2 Lite is available for under 40 euros, starting at 20 US dollars. This version has a quad-core RISC-V processor, but it has some limitations, including less RAM (2 GB) and no WLAN adapter unless you pay extra.
The Lite version has a slightly slower processor than the standard model and fewer connectivity options. Other single-board computers using the same RISC-V chip include models from Pine64 and OrangePi.
However, the software support for this board is lacking, particularly for graphics drivers. Currently, there are only limited options for running a graphical interface on Linux. Overall, while the Vision Five 2 Lite is an affordable entry into RISC-V computing, it may require users to experiment and deal with software limitations.
16.GLM-4.5: Agentic, Reasoning, and Coding (ARC) Foundation Models [pdf](GLM-4.5: Agentic, Reasoning, and Coding (ARC) Foundation Models [pdf])
No summary available.
17.The ex-CIA agents deciding Facebook's content policy (2022)(The ex-CIA agents deciding Facebook's content policy (2022))
The article discusses the influence of former CIA agents on Facebook's content policy. Aaron Berman, a former CIA senior manager, now leads a team that decides what content is acceptable on Facebook, which has nearly 3 billion users. He is not alone; many ex-CIA, FBI, and Department of Defense employees work at Meta (Facebook's parent company) in areas like trust and safety, leading to concerns about the company's impartiality and its ties to U.S. government interests.
The hiring of these individuals raises questions about the control they have over information and the potential for bias in moderating content. Critics argue that having so many former intelligence officers makes Facebook's operations too closely aligned with government agendas, particularly given the CIA's controversial history.
The article highlights the significant power Facebook holds in shaping public discourse, as it is a major news distributor globally. This concentration of power, especially in the hands of those with national security backgrounds, poses risks to democracy and national sovereignty. The text concludes that while the skills of these individuals may be valuable, their presence at Facebook creates a structural problem in terms of oversight and accountability in how information is managed online.
18.I tried every todo app and ended up with a .txt file(I tried every todo app and ended up with a .txt file)
The author shares their journey through various productivity apps like Notion, Todoist, and Trello, ultimately returning to a simple text file called todo.txt for task management. They found that while apps promised organization, they often became burdensome and complicated, leading to frustration and wasted time.
After a moment of realization when a phone died and a simple sticky note helped them complete tasks, the author embraced using a plain text file. This system allows them to easily jot down tasks, review them daily, and keep a record of completed items. Key benefits of this method include:
- Simplicity: No apps to manage or subscriptions to pay.
- Accessibility: The file is always visible and easy to access.
- Speed: Tasks can be added quickly without navigating menus.
- Searchability: Finding past tasks is straightforward.
- Reliability: A text file is stable and won't become obsolete.
The author concludes that productivity isn’t about finding the perfect app but rather about effectively managing tasks with a straightforward system. They encourage others to try this simple method by creating a todo.txt file, noting tasks, and adding updates as they complete work.
19.Monero appears to be in the midst of a successful 51% attack(Monero appears to be in the midst of a successful 51% attack)
No summary available.
20.Qodo CLI agent scores 71.2% on SWE-bench Verified(Qodo CLI agent scores 71.2% on SWE-bench Verified)
Qodo Command has achieved a score of 71.2% on SWE-bench Verified, a benchmark for evaluating AI agents in real-world software engineering tasks. This score indicates that Qodo Command can effectively handle complex coding challenges such as code reviews, bug fixes, and feature generation.
Key Points:
- Real-World Testing: Unlike other benchmarks, SWE-bench assesses AI agents using actual GitHub issues from popular open-source projects, ensuring they operate in realistic scenarios.
- Natural Performance: The score was achieved without any special tuning, demonstrating the agent's readiness for production use.
- LLM Partnership: Qodo Command utilizes the Claude 4 language model, developed in partnership with Anthropic, enhancing its capabilities in coding.
- Advanced Features:
- Context Summarization: It simplifies complex code into clear summaries for better understanding.
- Execution Planning: The agent plans tasks before execution, ensuring a structured approach to problem-solving.
- Error Handling: If an action fails, it can adapt and retry, maintaining progress.
- Modular Framework: Built on LangGraph for efficient workflow management.
- Code Quality Focus: Qodo Command automates processes like code review and test generation, promoting high-quality code.
- User-Friendly: It includes a UI mode for streamlined code review and is easy to install with a single command.
Overall, Qodo Command is designed for real-world software development, making it a valuable tool for enhancing productivity and code integrity. Users can start using it by installing via npm.
21.UK government advises deleting emails to save water(UK government advises deleting emails to save water)
The National Drought Group held a meeting on August 11, 2025, to discuss a significant water shortage in England, which is now considered a "nationally significant incident." Currently, five areas are officially in drought, and six more are experiencing prolonged dry weather after the driest six months since 1976.
Despite some rainfall, water levels in rivers and reservoirs are still low, with average reservoir capacity down to 67.7%. Yorkshire Water has implemented a hosepipe ban, and other companies have localized restrictions. The public has helped reduce water usage by 10%, saving about 80 million liters per day.
The meeting highlighted ongoing water conservation efforts by various sectors, including water companies, farmers, and the public. The National Farmers' Union expressed concerns about crop yields due to dry conditions, emphasizing the need for clean water access for food production.
The Met Office predicts continued dry weather, which may lead to further health issues related to heat and drought. The government is working with the National Drought Group to improve water management and infrastructure, aiming for significant investments to address future shortages.
To conserve water at home, people are encouraged to fix leaks, use collected rainwater, and adopt simple habits like taking shorter showers.
22.The Article in the Most Languages(The Article in the Most Languages)
The report discusses a significant case of disinformation on Wikipedia involving the artist David Woodard. In late 2024, it was discovered that an article about Woodard had become the most translated on Wikipedia, surpassing well-known countries and topics. This article had been created and edited primarily by a single user, “Swmmng,” as part of a large-scale self-promotion operation involving numerous accounts and proxy IP addresses.
David Woodard, born in 1964, gained notoriety in the 1990s for creating replicas of the Dreamachine and for his unusual performances, including a requiem for a pelican. His connections to controversial figures and groups have raised questions about his character and motivations. Woodard's presence on Wikipedia began with articles in German and English in 2010 and 2014, respectively, but his coverage exploded to 335 articles across various languages through orchestrated efforts by Swmmng and others.
The report details how Swmmng and different IP users created articles in numerous languages, including translations often done poorly or through machine translation. This campaign aimed to promote Woodard while disguising the coordinated nature of these edits.
The investigation concluded that Woodard or someone close to him was likely behind this promotion, violating Wikipedia’s policies on conflicts of interest and using multiple accounts. Following the report's release, many articles about Woodard were deleted, and actions were taken to curb the disinformation, reducing the total from 335 to just 20 articles. The report emphasizes the importance of maintaining the integrity of Wikipedia against such self-promotion efforts.
23.Claude Code is all you need(Claude Code is all you need)
Summary:
The author shares their experience using Claude Code, a tool they prefer over other coding platforms for its seamless integration into their workflow. After switching from GPT to Claude Code, they found it effective for both fun projects and real work tasks, leading to a subscription upgrade for more features.
Key projects include:
- Autonomous startup builder
- A SplitWise clone
- An AI poster maker
- A plugin for rating Hacker News comments
- Organizing bank statements
The author emphasizes three main takeaways:
- Trust the tool, even for sensitive tasks.
- Provide detailed input for better output.
- Claude Code excels at UI design despite being primarily text-based.
They discuss "vibe coding," where software is developed through dialogue with the model rather than direct coding, showcasing its ability to generate functional applications quickly. The author also notes the importance of careful prompting to avoid overcomplicated or broken code.
The author experimented with creating an autonomous startup by allowing Claude Code to generate its own prompts and code, leading to impressive results, though it occasionally misunderstood tasks due to policy restrictions.
Claude Code was also utilized for migrating a complex project and automating admin tasks, highlighting its efficiency in saving time and simplifying coding challenges.
Finally, the author reflects on using Claude Code as a text editor, appreciating its capabilities in generating custom content, while still believing that human oversight is essential for quality writing. Overall, they express excitement about future possibilities with AI in coding and writing.
24.GitHub is no longer independent at Microsoft after CEO resignation(GitHub is no longer independent at Microsoft after CEO resignation)
GitHub's CEO, Thomas Dohmke, has resigned after nearly four years, with plans to become a startup founder again. Following his departure, GitHub will operate more closely under Microsoft's CoreAI team, which focuses on developing AI tools. Microsoft will not replace Dohmke and GitHub's leadership will now report directly to the CoreAI team, rather than having a single CEO. This change comes as part of a restructuring that started when former CEO Nat Friedman left in 2021. Dohmke will stay until the end of 2025 to assist with the transition.
25.Artificial biosensor can better measure the body's main stress hormone(Artificial biosensor can better measure the body's main stress hormone)
No summary available.
26.High-severity WinRAR 0-day exploited for weeks by 2 groups(High-severity WinRAR 0-day exploited for weeks by 2 groups)
No summary available.
27.Starbucks in Korea asks customers to stop bringing in printers/desktop computers(Starbucks in Korea asks customers to stop bringing in printers/desktop computers)
Starbucks in South Korea has introduced a new policy asking customers not to bring large items like desktop computers and printers into their cafés. This change comes as many patrons have been using the coffee shops as makeshift offices due to limited office space in the country. The goal of the policy is to ensure a more pleasant experience for all customers and to maintain the cafés as welcoming spaces.
The trend of working in cafés, known as "cagongjok," has grown since the pandemic, as many workers turned to remote work. However, this has led to some complaints from café owners about customers occupying seats for extended periods while only purchasing minimal items. Starbucks wants to balance its image as a comfortable gathering place with the practical needs of all its visitors.
28.All known 49-year-old Apple-1 computers(All known 49-year-old Apple-1 computers)
No summary available.
29.Undefined Behavior in C and C++ (2024)(Undefined Behavior in C and C++ (2024))
Summary of Undefined Behavior in C and C++
Undefined behavior (UB) in C (and C++) refers to actions in the code that the language standard does not define, leading to unpredictable results. It's essential for programmers to understand UB because it can cause serious bugs and security vulnerabilities.
Key Points:
-
What is Undefined Behavior?
- UB occurs when the code violates the rules of the C standard, leading to unpredictable outcomes. Examples include:
- Dereferencing invalid pointers
- Using uninitialized variables
- Signed integer overflow
- Bit shifting beyond limits
- Aliasing rules violations
- UB occurs when the code violates the rules of the C standard, leading to unpredictable outcomes. Examples include:
-
Why Does UB Exist?
- UB allows compilers to optimize code more effectively, as they can make assumptions about valid operations. If a programmer violates these assumptions, the compiler may produce unexpected results, which can lead to performance improvements when the code adheres to the rules.
-
Common Sources of UB:
- Dereferencing Bad Pointers: Accessing memory that isn’t valid.
- Uninitialized Data: Using variables that haven't been given a known value.
- Signed Integer Overflow: Adding numbers that exceed the maximum value for integers.
- Bit Shifting: Shifting bits out of bounds can lead to UB.
- Aliasing: Accessing an object through a pointer of a different type can cause issues.
-
How to Avoid UB:
- Compiler Warnings: Use flags to enable warnings about potential UB.
- Bounds Checking: Implement checks to ensure array access is within limits.
- Sanitizers: Use tools like Valgrind to detect memory issues during testing.
- Static Analyzers: Tools that analyze code without executing it to find potential bugs.
- Safety Flags: Compiler options that can help manage UB, though they may not be portable across compilers.
- Turn Off Optimization: In some cases, turning off optimization can help avoid UB during debugging.
- Consider Different Languages: For new projects, consider using higher-level languages that manage memory and safety better.
-
The Impact of UB:
- UB can lead to critical security vulnerabilities and can behave inconsistently between different compiler versions or settings. It makes debugging difficult as code may work under certain conditions but fail unexpectedly later.
Understanding and avoiding undefined behavior in C is crucial to writing reliable and secure software.
30.I built an offline, open‑source desktop Pixel Art Editor in Python(I built an offline, open‑source desktop Pixel Art Editor in Python)
You don't need to register, install, or configure anything. Just run it on any computer and start drawing right away.
31.OpenSSH Post-Quantum Cryptography(OpenSSH Post-Quantum Cryptography)
No summary available.
32.Radicle 1.3.0(Radicle 1.3.0)
Radicle has released version 1.3.0 of its peer-to-peer code collaboration tool, featuring contributions from 7 developers. Key updates include:
-
Installation: Users can install Radicle 1.3.0 using a specific command.
-
Canonical References: New rules for canonical references have been added, allowing better management of version tags.
-
Radicle Protocol: A new component called
radicle-protocol
has been introduced, focusing on the protocol's internal workings. -
Windows Support: Initial steps have been taken to support Radicle on Windows, allowing usage of the
rad
command line interface without WSL. -
Log Management: Logs will now rotate and persist between sessions, requiring cleanup.
-
Node ID Display: Node IDs and addresses will be formatted better for easier copying.
-
Pinned Repositories: The order of pinned repositories will remain consistent based on user preference.
-
Push Improvements: The
git-remote-rad
can now push from bare repositories, improving usability. -
Error Reporting: Connection errors will be reported immediately rather than causing timeouts.
-
Default Branch Selection: The default branch can now be automatically set based on the current branch or Git configuration.
For the full list of changes, users can refer to the detailed changelog.
This version aims to enhance usability and expand platform support.
33.Weathering Software Winter (2022)(Weathering Software Winter (2022))
The blog post discusses a talk by Devine about the challenges of using modern technology while sailing and the philosophy behind their small studio, Hundred Rabbits. The studio operates on a solar-powered sailboat, using repurposed devices and focusing on resilience in technology, food security, and learning from past technologies that can be useful in crises.
Devine shares experiences of how modern software often fails in remote locations due to reliance on internet connectivity and subscription services. This reliance caused frustration when the technology they expected to work failed, highlighting an unsettling truth: skills developed using proprietary software can be lost if access is denied.
The talk also delves into the importance of data preservation and the decline of long-lasting digital media. Devine reflects on the inadequacy of modern tech for artists and developers, noting that many projects become obsolete quickly. They advocate for exploring older technologies and creating personal computing experiences that are more resilient and customizable.
Devine emphasizes creating simple, tailor-made systems instead of relying on mass-market solutions, arguing for the beauty of minimalism in computer systems. They encourage others to build their own programming languages and systems, fostering creativity and personal connection to technology.
The closing thoughts suggest a philosophy of "permacomputing," inspired by permaculture, aiming for resilience through diverse approaches and discouraging reliance on a single technology or ecosystem.
34.Why Are There So Many Rationalist Cults?(Why Are There So Many Rationalist Cults?)
Summary of "The Problem of Young Rationalists"
The rationalist community, which emphasizes critical thinking and rational discourse, has some groups that have become dysfunctional and even harmful. Despite its roots in rational thinking, these groups often attract vulnerable individuals looking for guidance. Some notable examples include the Zizians, linked to violent incidents, and Black Lotus, associated with abuse and manipulation.
Key issues arise from the community's foundational writings, like Eliezer Yudkowsky's "The Sequences," which promise transformative thinking but can lead to cult-like behaviors. While the overall rationalist community is functional, certain factions attract individuals with serious life challenges, leading them to seek out extreme solutions.
Dysfunction often stems from social isolation and intense discussions about psychology, which can create groupthink and detachment from reality. Many rationalists become so absorbed in their beliefs that they neglect to seek outside perspectives, making them vulnerable to harmful leaders.
To avoid falling into dysfunctional patterns, individuals are advised to maintain diverse social connections, engage in activities with clear external goals, and question group dynamics. The rationalist community can benefit from setting realistic expectations and providing better support to newcomers, ensuring they don't feel pressured to conform to extreme ideologies.
35.FreeBSD Scheduling on Hybrid CPUs(FreeBSD Scheduling on Hybrid CPUs)
No summary available.
36.What does it mean to be thirsty?(What does it mean to be thirsty?)
Summary: What Does It Mean To Be Thirsty?
Thirst is a crucial biological signal that arises when the body lacks sufficient water. While every cell feels the effects of dehydration, the brain is responsible for creating the sensation of thirst, prompting behaviors to seek water.
Water is essential for all living organisms, as it facilitates chemical reactions within cells. If the balance of water and salt in the body is disrupted, cells can malfunction. The brain monitors water levels through specialized areas called circumventricular organs, which detect changes in blood chemistry related to salt concentration, indirectly indicating the need for water.
When the body’s water content drops by just 1% to 3%, the brain triggers feelings of thirst, like a dry mouth and scratchy throat. However, the brain doesn’t get immediate feedback from drinking water, so it relies on various sensors to estimate hydration needs. These sensors communicate with the brain to manage thirst and maintain balance.
Different animals have unique ways of managing thirst. For instance, ground squirrels can suppress their thirst response during hibernation despite needing water. Other animals, like camels and sea otters, have specialized adaptations for water storage and salt regulation.
In summary, thirst is a complex experience influenced by biological signals, brain function, and ecological adaptations, leading to different thirst behaviors across species.
37.Neki – Sharded Postgres by the team behind Vitess(Neki – Sharded Postgres by the team behind Vitess)
Summary of Neki Announcement
On August 11, 2025, a team led by Andres Taylor announced Neki, a new tool designed for Postgres that allows sharding, similar to what Vitess does for MySQL. Neki is built from scratch, tailored specifically for Postgres, rather than being a version of Vitess. The team aims to make advanced sharding features available to many users, using their experience with large-scale systems. Neki will eventually be released as an open-source project for handling demanding Postgres tasks. For updates, you can sign up at neki.dev.
38.The History of Windows XP(The History of Windows XP)
The text discusses the history of Microsoft Windows XP, highlighting its development and impact on the computing industry. Key points include:
-
Microsoft's Influence: By the late 1990s, Microsoft became a dominant force, and any changes to its products sparked strong reactions from users.
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Transition from MS-DOS: Microsoft aimed to replace the outdated MS-DOS with a more advanced operating system. The development of Windows NT, led by engineer Neil Cutler, marked the shift away from MS-DOS.
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Neptune Project: Originally, Microsoft planned a consumer version of NT called Neptune, which was eventually canceled in favor of a unified approach to Windows 2000.
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Whistler and Windows XP: The project that replaced Neptune was codenamed Whistler, which evolved into Windows XP, incorporating features from both consumer and professional versions.
-
Visual Design: Microsoft collaborated with Frog Design to create the iconic Luna interface for Windows XP.
-
Launch and Reception: Windows XP was launched in October 2001, with significant marketing efforts. It received mixed initial reactions, particularly concerning its product activation system.
-
Sales Success: Despite some criticisms, XP sold millions of licenses quickly and became the dominant operating system for many years.
-
Legacy: Windows XP raised user expectations for software stability and longevity, supporting a wide range of hardware. It maintained relevance until third-party software support dwindled, leading to its decline.
The article invites former Microsoft employees to share insights, emphasizing the collaborative history of the industry.
39.The value of institutional memory(The value of institutional memory)
No summary available.
40.Halluminate (YC S25) – Simulating the internet to train computer use(Halluminate (YC S25) – Simulating the internet to train computer use)
Jerry and Wyatt from Halluminate are developing tools to help AI labs train computer use agents with high-quality data and environments. They focus on training AI agents to use software effectively, which is currently unreliable. To improve this, they're creating a simulated environment called Westworld, which mimics common apps where AI agents can learn valuable tasks, like booking flights or organizing data.
In Westworld, agents receive specific tasks to complete, and a verifier checks if they succeed. This system helps calculate rewards in their training process. By building more realistic simulators, they aim to enhance the capabilities of AI agents. For instance, one customer improved their date-picking performance by about 20% using their flight booking simulator.
The challenges they face include creating realistic simulations and selecting valuable tasks based on feedback from experts. They are excited about future developments, including training on complex tasks and procedural data generation, and plan to make their simulators open-source for public use.
Additionally, Halluminate also focuses on creating human-generated data for AI training, similar to services like Scale AI. Jerry and Wyatt, who have a background in computer science and experience in the tech industry, started this venture to address the challenges they encountered in their previous jobs.
They welcome questions and feedback from the community.
41.How to teach your kids to play poker: Start with one card(How to teach your kids to play poker: Start with one card)
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42.Why tail-recursive functions are loops(Why tail-recursive functions are loops)
Summary: Why Tail-Recursive Functions are Loops
Tail-recursive functions and loops are similar because they can both perform repetitive tasks efficiently. Recursive functions are often slower than loops because they use more memory to keep track of previous calls. In recursive implementations, each call requires additional stack space, which can slow down programs.
For example, a simple sum function using recursion keeps track of each call on the stack, leading to increased memory usage. In contrast, a loop accumulates results in a single variable without the need for additional stack frames, making it faster and using constant space.
Tail-recursion improves efficiency by ensuring that the recursive call is the last operation in the function. This allows compilers to optimize the call, using the same space as a loop. To create a tail-recursive function, you introduce an accumulator variable to keep track of results instead of making new calls that require additional stack space.
An exercise suggests converting a function counting even and odd numbers into a tail-recursive version, using multiple accumulators. Another exercise involves flattening a tree structure, which is more complex due to multiple recursive calls.
Lastly, the text notes that converting programs into continuation-passing style can eliminate stack usage entirely, allowing for deep nesting in memory instead of relying on a traditional stack structure.
43.AOL to discontinue dial-up internet(AOL to discontinue dial-up internet)
No summary available.
44.36B solar mass black hole at centre of the Cosmic Horseshoe gravitational lens(36B solar mass black hole at centre of the Cosmic Horseshoe gravitational lens)
No summary available.
45.Play Pokémon to unlock your Wayland session(Play Pokémon to unlock your Wayland session)
The author has created a Game Boy emulator to unlock their Wayland session and is excited to share it. As a longtime Linux enthusiast, they enjoy customizing their system. With Wayland's high performance, they wanted to make the experience more fun by turning the unlocking process into a puzzle, inspired by escape games.
They studied Wayland and built a locker that uses a modified Game Boy emulator, specifically a Pokémon game. When the correct password is entered, a specific value is placed in the emulator's memory to unlock the session. The author hopes others will appreciate their project.
46.Optimizing my sleep around Claude usage limits(Optimizing my sleep around Claude usage limits)
Summary: Optimizing Sleep for Claude Usage
Over the past month, I've adjusted my sleep schedule to make the most of my Claude Pro subscription, which resets every five hours. Initially, this reset would interrupt my workflow, causing frustration. To tackle this, I came up with a plan to optimize my usage.
I've also taken up sailing, which requires short sleep intervals, often under 30 minutes. Inspired by this, I decided to adopt a similar sleep pattern to maximize my Claude usage. So far, it's been effective; I typically run out of tokens in 1-3 hours, allowing for short naps that still provide some REM sleep.
This new approach has significantly boosted my productivity, allowing me to develop features for my B2B SaaS project more efficiently. However, I anticipate that subscription costs or usage limits may increase in the future, so I'm preparing for that possibility.
47.Japan's largest paper, Yomiuri Shimbun, sues Perplexity for copyright violations(Japan's largest paper, Yomiuri Shimbun, sues Perplexity for copyright violations)
No summary available.
48.How Boom uses software to accelerate hardware development(How Boom uses software to accelerate hardware development)
Blake Scholl, the CEO of Boom Supersonic, discusses how his company successfully developed the XB-1, the world's first independently developed supersonic jet, with a small team of just 50 people and a fraction of the usual budget. He emphasizes the importance of moving quickly and efficiently in hardware development, highlighting lessons learned that could have sped up the process even further.
A key strategy at Boom is integrating software engineering into hardware teams. This approach allows all engineers to code and utilize AI, leading to improved design workflows. They developed a proprietary software called mkBoom, which automates various design analyses, enabling rapid evaluation of multiple aircraft designs and better overall performance.
This method not only saves time but also enhances the design quality. For example, mkBoom helped find solutions that improved the passenger experience on their new airliner, Overture, without sacrificing performance. By simulating different design options for both the airplane and its engine, Boom was able to achieve significant efficiency gains and maintain essential range metrics.
Overall, Boom's innovative approach combines a small, skilled team with modern software tools to accelerate aircraft development and improve design outcomes.
49.Ollama and gguf(Ollama and gguf)
The text discusses an issue with running the gguf model of the "gpt-oss 20b" in the Ollama project.
Key Points:
- The original model runs fine, but the gguf model fails with errors related to tensor types.
- A potential fix may require updating dependencies, specifically llama.cpp.
- There are specific error logs indicating invalid tensor types when trying to initialize the model.
- Additional information such as the operating system, GPU, and CPU details were not provided.
- The issue was posted by a user named VictorWangwz and has received 41 comments.
Overall, the main concern is that the gguf model is not functioning correctly, and updates to dependencies may be needed to resolve the problem.
50.Syncthing 2.0 Released(Syncthing 2.0 Released)
Summary of Syncthing v2.0.0 Release
Syncthing has released version 2.0.0, marking the start of a new series. Key updates include:
-
Database Changes: The database backend has shifted from LevelDB to SQLite, improving maintenance and performance. Migration may take time for larger setups.
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Logging Improvements: The logging format is now structured with key-value pairs, and the log levels have been updated for better clarity.
-
Deleted Items Management: Deleted files will now be forgotten after six months, rather than kept indefinitely. Users can adjust this setting if needed.
-
Command Line Updates: Command line options have been modernized, with some old formats no longer supported. Users should refer to the help command for details.
-
Connection Enhancements: The default number of connections between devices has increased to three, improving data exchange efficiency.
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Platform Support Changes: Some platforms will no longer receive prebuilt binaries due to SQLite compatibility issues.
-
Conflict Resolution Changes: A delete can now win in conflict resolution scenarios, moving the deleted file to a conflict copy.
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Bug Fixes and Features: Numerous bug fixes and new features have been implemented, including improved bandwidth management and debugging commands.
This release is available through various channels, including an APT repository and Docker images. Users should prepare for some rough edges due to the significant changes in this version.
51.Byte Buddy is a code generation and manipulation library for Java(Byte Buddy is a code generation and manipulation library for Java)
No summary available.
52.Chronic sleep deprivation harms development of growing babies(Chronic sleep deprivation harms development of growing babies)
No summary available.
53.Pricing Pages – A Curated Gallery of Pricing Page Designs(Pricing Pages – A Curated Gallery of Pricing Page Designs)
This text provides an overview of various pricing page designs and examples from different companies. Key points include:
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Types of Pricing Models: The examples feature various pricing structures such as subscription options, usage-based pricing, and custom enterprise pricing.
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Design Features: Many pricing pages include elements like tier cards, comparison tables, FAQs, contact sales options, testimonials, and feature checkmarks.
-
Examples of Companies: Companies like Mux, Chroma, and Delphi AI are mentioned, each with unique pricing tiers and structures.
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Filtering Options: Users can filter the examples based on components and design patterns, which include color-coded tiers, monthly/annual switches, and more.
Overall, the text serves as a resource for exploring effective pricing page designs and strategies.
54.The Joy of Mixing Custom Elements, Web Components, and Markdown(The Joy of Mixing Custom Elements, Web Components, and Markdown)
Summary of "The Joy of Mixing Custom Elements, Web Components, and Markdown" by Deane Barker
Deane Barker expresses his enthusiasm for Markdown, a simple text format that replaces complex markup with easier-to-read symbols and syntax. He highlights that Markdown is processed on the server to generate HTML, allowing for a mix of Markdown and HTML within the same document.
A key feature of Markdown is its ability to incorporate HTML directly, which helps users escape to more complex structures when needed. Barker discusses how this capability can be enhanced using Custom Elements, which are part of a broader technology called Web Components. Custom Elements allow developers to create reusable components that can produce complex HTML outputs from simple tags.
By combining Markdown with Custom Elements, users can maintain the simplicity of Markdown while still implementing advanced features like forms or interactive components. Barker shares examples where Custom Elements can act as placeholders in Markdown, expanding into intricate HTML elements when rendered in the browser.
He notes that while there are technical details and constraints when using Custom Elements with Markdown, the integration opens new possibilities for creating rich web content without losing the simplicity and ease of writing in Markdown. Barker also touches on the potential for pre-processing Markdown to further streamline the integration of Custom Elements.
Overall, Barker delights in the synergy between Markdown and Custom Elements, which allows for a more manageable writing experience while still enabling complex web functionality.
55.Is Chain-of-Thought Reasoning of LLMs a Mirage? A Data Distribution Lens(Is Chain-of-Thought Reasoning of LLMs a Mirage? A Data Distribution Lens)
No summary available.
56.Faster substring search with SIMD in Zig(Faster substring search with SIMD in Zig)
Summary of "Faster Substring Search with SIMD in Zig"
This article discusses how to speed up substring searching in the Zig programming language using SIMD (Single Instruction, Multiple Data) techniques. The author compares a traditional method from Zig's standard library with a new SIMD-based algorithm that is approximately 60% faster.
Key Points:
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Baseline Function: The standard Zig function for substring search is based on the Boyer-Moore-Horspool algorithm, which uses a skip table to optimize searches but cannot take full advantage of SIMD.
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SIMD Algorithm: Inspired by Wojciech Muła’s work, the SIMD method extracts the first and last characters of the substring (needle) and processes blocks of the text (haystack) in chunks of 32 bytes. It creates bit masks to identify potential matches quickly, reducing the number of memory accesses needed.
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Zig Implementation: The author utilizes Zig's vector capabilities, assuming CPU support for AVX2, to handle SIMD operations efficiently. They load characters into SIMD registers and perform comparisons using logical operations.
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Performance Benchmarks: The SIMD-based search is tested on a large text (Moby Dick) and shows significant performance improvements, taking only 500 microseconds on average compared to 1.22 milliseconds for the standard method. It shows an 82% reduction in CPU cycles.
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Further Optimization: The author notes that by selecting less common characters from the needle for the SIMD comparisons, they can further reduce branch mispredictions and improve speed.
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AVX-512 Support: The article also mentions future potential improvements with AVX-512, which can process even larger data sizes (64 bytes at a time), though the author has not tested it.
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Microbenchmarking: Even with small inputs (less than 100 characters), the SIMD method performs faster, indicating its efficiency regardless of input size.
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Conclusion: The author concludes that SIMD significantly enhances substring search speed and encourages further exploration and optimization of this technique.
The full implementation and code are available on GitHub, and the author invites readers to explore the topic further.
57.Mistral Integration Improved in Llama.cpp(Mistral Integration Improved in Llama.cpp)
No summary available.
58.Outside of the top stocks, S&P 500 forward profits haven't grown in 3 years(Outside of the top stocks, S&P 500 forward profits haven't grown in 3 years)
No summary available.
59.133-year old Kodak says it might have to cease operations(133-year old Kodak says it might have to cease operations)
No summary available.
60.Chris Simpkins, creator of Hack font, has died(Chris Simpkins, creator of Hack font, has died)
No summary available.
61.Claude is the drug, Cursor is the dealer(Claude is the drug, Cursor is the dealer)
No summary available.
62.Manpower discloses data breach affecting nearly 145,000 people(Manpower discloses data breach affecting nearly 145,000 people)
No summary available.
63.The Quiet Disappearance of Skeptics in the AI Gold Rush(The Quiet Disappearance of Skeptics in the AI Gold Rush)
No summary available.
64.The Chrome VRP Panel has decided to award $250k for this report(The Chrome VRP Panel has decided to award $250k for this report)
No summary available.
65.The demographic future of humanity: facts and consequences [pdf](The demographic future of humanity: facts and consequences [pdf])
No summary available.
66.GLM-4.5V: An open-source multimodal large language model from Zhipu AI(GLM-4.5V: An open-source multimodal large language model from Zhipu AI)
No summary available.
67.Going faster than memcpy(Going faster than memcpy)
No summary available.
68.White Mountain Direttissima(White Mountain Direttissima)
No summary available.
69.A simple pixel physics simulator in Rust using Macroquad(A simple pixel physics simulator in Rust using Macroquad)
No summary available.
70.Learn, Reflect, Apply, Prepare: The Four Daily Practices That Changed How I Live(Learn, Reflect, Apply, Prepare: The Four Daily Practices That Changed How I Live)
No summary available.
71.Sloppy AI defenses take cybersecurity back to the 1990s, researchers say(Sloppy AI defenses take cybersecurity back to the 1990s, researchers say)
At the Black Hat USA 2025 security conference, the main focus was on the risks associated with artificial intelligence (AI). Key points discussed included:
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AI Vulnerabilities: Large language models (LLMs) and AI agents are easy targets for attacks, and many security lessons from the past are being ignored. Experts emphasized the need for organizations using AI to recognize these risks and take preventive measures.
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Input Manipulation: Attackers can influence AI outputs by feeding them malicious inputs, similar to SQL injection attacks. Developers should assume their AI systems can be hacked and design them with this in mind.
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Real-World Examples: Presenters showed how they successfully attacked AI tools like Microsoft Copilot and ChatGPT by cleverly wording requests to bypass security filters. This highlighted the inadequacy of current AI safeguards.
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Old Vulnerabilities: The rise of AI tools is bringing back old security issues. Developers often do not understand the risks posed by AI and fail to implement proper security measures.
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Need for Specialized AIs: Experts argued for the development of AI systems that are focused on specific tasks rather than trying to do everything. Treating AI as sophisticated entities leads to increased security risks.
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Advice for Organizations: Companies should proactively test their AI systems for vulnerabilities and be cautious in their use of AI technology, as many current practices are reminiscent of security issues from the past.
Overall, the conference highlighted the urgent need for better security practices in the rapidly evolving field of AI.
72.Millau Viaduct(Millau Viaduct)
No summary available.
73.Designing Software in the Large(Designing Software in the Large)
Summary of "Designing Software in the Large"
The book "A Philosophy of Software Design" emphasizes the importance of keeping software systems simple and maintainable over time. Here are the key points:
-
Complexity in Software:
- Complexity makes software hard to understand and modify.
- Symptoms include:
- Change Amplification: Simple changes require many code modifications.
- High Cognitive Load: Developers need to remember a lot of information.
- Unknown Unknowns: It’s unclear which code needs changes or what information is needed.
-
Causes of Complexity:
- Dependencies: Code that relies on other code makes changes difficult.
- Obscurity: Important information isn’t obvious, leading to confusion.
-
Managing Complexity:
- Aim to reduce complexity while making changes to the software.
- Cohesive Code: Focus on creating modules that are functional and easy to understand.
- Keep module interfaces small to lower dependencies and overall complexity.
-
Obscurity:
- Obscurity can lead to confusion and a higher cognitive load.
- Causes of obscurity include vague names, inconsistency, and poor documentation.
- Strive for "obvious code" that is clear, consistent, and well-documented.
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Mindsets in Software Development:
- Complexity naturally builds up if not addressed.
- Adopt a strategic mindset: invest time in clean design and fixing issues, rather than just adding new features.
Takeaway: Maintaining low complexity is crucial for the long-term sustainability of software systems. Simply having working code is not enough; a focus on clarity and maintainability is essential.
74.A Global Look at Teletext(A Global Look at Teletext)
Summary of Teletext Overview
Teletext is a technology used for displaying text and graphics on TV screens, originating in the 1970s. While often seen as outdated, it remains popular in many countries, especially in Europe.
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Origins: Teletext began in the UK with the launch of Ceefax by the BBC in 1974 and ORACLE by IBA in 1978. It provided information like subtitles and news through a simple text display format.
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Standards: The British standard, called World System Teletext (WST), became widely adopted. Other countries developed their own systems, like France's Antiope, which offered more advanced graphics but struggled to gain traction outside France.
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Global Variations: Different regions developed unique teletext systems:
- Canada: Created Telidon, which used vector graphics but faced challenges with decoder costs.
- USA: Teletext was complicated due to multiple standards and a lack of regulatory support, leading to the eventual adoption of NAPLPS as a standard.
- Asia: Japan developed a sophisticated teletext system (JTES) that supported complex characters and even audio, while countries like Singapore and Malaysia adopted simpler versions.
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Decline and Persistence: Despite the rise of the internet and digital technologies, teletext continues to be used in many countries, with 10-15% of users in some Western European nations still relying on it.
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Cultural Impact: Teletext has played a significant role in broadcasting, providing news and information, and has also been associated with adult content, particularly in Europe.
Overall, teletext has a rich history and continues to be relevant in various forms across the globe.
75.Token growth indicates future AI spend per dev(Token growth indicates future AI spend per dev)
The Kilo Code Blog discusses the rising costs of AI development, predicting that bills could reach over $100,000 per year for developers. The blog notes a significant increase in the use of open-source AI coding tools like Cline, Roo, and Kilo, especially after competitors like Cursor and Claude began limiting user access.
Key points include:
- Token Growth: Kilo recently surpassed 1 trillion tokens monthly, reflecting the growing use of open-source tools.
- Flawed Industry Assumptions: The expectation that inference costs would drop significantly was incorrect. While raw inference costs fell, application inference costs actually rose, leading to unsustainable pricing models.
- Cost Drivers: Increased token consumption per application and constant costs for frontier models are driving up costs significantly.
- Subscription Models: Current subscription plans are expensive and often throttle high-use users. Open-source tools aim to avoid throttling by allowing users to manage their own costs.
- Future Predictions: As AI tools evolve, costs for developers are expected to rise, with more parallel AI agents and longer workloads before needing human feedback contributing to this increase.
The blog concludes by highlighting the vast difference in costs between inference and training engineers, where top training engineers can command salaries and budgets far exceeding those of inference engineers.
76.Try and(Try and)
The text discusses the phrase "try and" in English, which is often used instead of "try to." Here are the key points:
-
Usage: "Try and" can be followed by a verb in its base form and is more common in British English, but also used in American and Canadian English. This phrase has been around since at least the late 1500s.
-
Syntactic Properties:
- It does not behave like standard coordination in grammar.
- Wh-words can be moved out of "try and" constructions, which is not the case for regular coordinated phrases.
- The order of verbs in "try and" cannot be changed.
- The phrase cannot be preceded by "both."
- It must use the base form of the verb that follows "and."
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Dialect Variation: In some dialects, different rules apply, such as allowing inflected forms.
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Restrictions: "Try and" cannot be separated by adverbs or negation, and it doesn't allow ellipsis (shortening by omitting repeated verbs).
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Other Examples: Other phrases have similar constructions, like "be sure and" or motion verbs like "come and go."
Overall, the text analyzes the grammatical features and historical context of the phrase "try and."
77.Generic Containers in C: Safe Division Using Maybe(Generic Containers in C: Safe Division Using Maybe)
No summary available.
78.Vanishing from Hyundai’s data network(Vanishing from Hyundai’s data network)
No summary available.
79.Trump Orders National Guard to Washington and Takeover of Capital’s Police(Trump Orders National Guard to Washington and Takeover of Capital’s Police)
No summary available.
80.Easily run Windows software on Linux with Bottles(Easily run Windows software on Linux with Bottles)
Summary of Bottles Funded by NLnet
Bottles is excited to be part of NLnet's 2025 Commons Fund, which supports running Windows software on Linux.
Key Features:
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Gaming Ready: Bottles is set up to easily run many Windows video games on Linux, with access to popular game stores like Epic Games and Battle.net.
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Custom Environments: Users can choose between pre-configured settings for gaming or software, or create a custom setup for advanced needs.
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Easy Customization: Users can easily tweak their Windows environment with options for different performance enhancements like dxvk and gamemode.
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Dependency Management: Bottles includes a simple tool to manage software dependencies automatically, making installations smooth.
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One-Click Installation: Community-created installers automate the setup of games and applications, so users don’t have to worry about dependencies.
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Snapshot Management: Users can easily restore previous states of their setups if something goes wrong, with automatic snapshots when changes are made.
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Safe and Isolated: Bottles operates in a safe, sandboxed environment, protecting user files and keeping installations separate from the main system.
Overall, Bottles provides an accessible way for users to enjoy Windows applications and games on Linux while ensuring safety and ease of use.
81.Keeps – Mail a postcard that plays your voice(Keeps – Mail a postcard that plays your voice)
Summary:
Clark, the creator of Keeps, has developed a service that lets you send physical postcards that include a voice message. Here’s how it works:
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What It Is: You can upload a photo, write a message, and add a 60-second voice note to create a 4x6 postcard. The postcard features a QR code that links to a digital card playing the audio. The cost is $5, which includes printing and postage, and no account is needed.
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Why It Was Created: Clark wanted to combine the charm of sending postcards with the ease of adding voice messages, making the process simpler and more efficient.
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How It Works: The service uses various technologies to function, including Next.js for the website, Stripe for payments, and Lob for printing and mailing the cards.
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What Makes It Unique: It offers a combination of a voice note and a physical card, has a simple design with no sign-up needed, and has a clear $5 price with everything included.
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Try It Free: Visit the website, create a card, and use the promo code SENDKEEPSFREE for a free first send (limited to the first 50 users).
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Feedback Request: Clark is looking for feedback on the user experience, QR code functionality, address features, and suggestions for potential uses of the service.
Feel free to ask any questions or request more information!
82.Lists and Lists: Basics of Lisp through interactive fiction (1996)(Lists and Lists: Basics of Lisp through interactive fiction (1996))
No summary available.
83.ServerBuddy – GUI SSH client for managing Linux servers from macOS(ServerBuddy – GUI SSH client for managing Linux servers from macOS)
The author has created an app for macOS called ServerBuddy, designed to simplify managing multiple Linux servers through a user-friendly interface.
Key Points:
- Problem Addressed: Managing many servers often requires using multiple terminal windows and copying scripts, which can be inefficient.
- Features of ServerBuddy:
- Easily switch between servers and tag them for quick searching.
- Dashboard displays real-time CPU, memory, disk usage, and uptime.
- Interface shows sortable and filterable lists of processes, Docker containers, services, network ports, and logs.
- Includes a file browser and a full terminal for command line access.
- No extra software is needed on the servers; everything is done via SSH.
- Pricing: Free for one server; $59 for unlimited servers with a year of updates.
- Feedback: The author encourages developers and sysadmins to try the app and provide feedback on features or workflows.
Screenshots of the app can be viewed at the provided link.
84.AP to end its weekly book reviews(AP to end its weekly book reviews)
The Associated Press (AP) has announced that it will stop publishing weekly book reviews starting September 1. This decision was made after evaluating what content is most popular with readers, revealing that interest in book reviews is low. AP will still cover books as stories, but only staff members will handle this. Current review assignments will be honored, and reviewers should submit their invoices as usual by September 15. The note expresses gratitude to those who coordinated and edited the reviews for their hard work.
85.Anti-competitive practices masquerading as security is a dangerous pattern(Anti-competitive practices masquerading as security is a dangerous pattern)
The founder of interviewing.io, a platform for anonymous mock interviews, had their LinkedIn account deleted after posting about a new interview preparation resource hub. This hub included content critical of LinkedIn, prompting concerns that LinkedIn might be silencing competitors under the guise of security measures.
After posting, the founder's account was flagged as compromised, and they were asked to verify their identity with a government ID. They refused to submit this ID due to suspicions about the legitimacy of the request. Eventually, they were able to recover their account through connections, but the experience raised serious questions about LinkedIn's identity management and security practices.
The founder suspects that the account deletion was a result of anti-competitive behavior, as their company’s follower count also dropped to zero. They argue that LinkedIn's inability to verify identities effectively is troubling for a leading recruiting platform and call for more transparency and fairness in how LinkedIn handles such situations. They are seeking to gather similar stories from others who may have experienced account issues with LinkedIn.
86.GPT-OSS-120B runs on just 8GB VRAM & 64GB+ system RAM(GPT-OSS-120B runs on just 8GB VRAM & 64GB+ system RAM)
No summary available.
87.I want everything local – Building my offline AI workspace(I want everything local – Building my offline AI workspace)
A friend expressed a desire for a completely local computing environment, avoiding cloud services and remote code execution. This prompted the development of a system that integrates local Large Language Models (LLMs) with isolated code execution and web browsing capabilities.
Key Features of the System:
- Local LLMs: The chat functionalities run entirely on the user's machine.
- Isolated Code Execution: Code runs in a lightweight virtual machine (VM), ensuring privacy and security.
- Headless Browser: Allows for online access and automation without exposing user data.
Development Challenges:
- Initially, the team aimed to create a native Mac app but faced difficulties in development tools and platform-specific issues. They ultimately opted for a local web application instead.
- Integrating multiple LLMs proved tricky, as some did not support certain functions, complicating the user experience.
Technology Stack:
- LLMs: Ollama for local models.
- Frontend: assistant-ui.
- Sandboxing: Apple’s Container for isolated execution.
- Automation: Playwright for browser functionalities.
Achievements:
- Successfully tested the system with tasks like video editing using AI-generated code and integrating a headless browser for information retrieval.
- Ensured that files generated during tasks are stored safely without compromising the host system.
Limitations and Future Plans:
- Currently compatible only with Apple Silicon.
- Needs improvements in UI for better tool management.
- The headless browser faces restrictions as it is often flagged by websites.
Conclusion:
This project emphasizes the importance of local computing for privacy and agency, aiming to provide effective tools without reliance on cloud services. The team encourages feedback and contributions as they continue to develop this system. You can find more details on GitHub.
88.GPT-OSS vs. Qwen3 and a detailed look how things evolved since GPT-2(GPT-OSS vs. Qwen3 and a detailed look how things evolved since GPT-2)
OpenAI has recently launched two new open-weight language models, gpt-oss-120b and gpt-oss-20b, marking the first major release since GPT-2 in 2019. These models are designed to run locally, thanks to optimizations that allow them to function on consumer-grade hardware.
Key points from the article include:
-
Model Architecture: gpt-oss models are based on the transformer architecture, similar to previous models like GPT-2. They include various optimizations and improvements, such as:
- Removal of Dropout: Modern models often skip this to avoid overfitting in single-epoch training.
- Rotary Position Embedding (RoPE): This technique replaces traditional positional embeddings.
- Swish Activation: Swish is used instead of GELU for its computational efficiency.
- Mixture-of-Experts (MoE): This structure allows the model to use a subset of multiple feedforward modules, enhancing capacity while maintaining efficiency.
- Grouped Query Attention: This method improves memory usage by allowing multiple heads to share key and value projections.
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Comparative Analysis: The article compares gpt-oss with the newer Qwen3 architecture, noting that gpt-oss is wider with a larger embedding dimension, while Qwen3 is deeper. The two models have different approaches to handling experts and attention mechanisms.
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Training and Reasoning: gpt-oss models were trained on a large dataset with a focus on reasoning tasks. They can adjust reasoning effort during inference for better performance and efficiency.
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Benchmarks: While independent benchmarks for gpt-oss are still forthcoming, initial tests indicate they perform comparably to proprietary models.
-
Open-Weight Model: The gpt-oss models are released under an Apache 2.0 open-source license, allowing broad usage in commercial applications.
Overall, the gpt-oss models represent significant advancements in the field of AI, combining established transformer architecture with innovative features to enhance performance and usability.
89.Raised by Wolves Is Original Sci-Fi at Its Most Polarizing (2020)(Raised by Wolves Is Original Sci-Fi at Its Most Polarizing (2020))
"Raised by Wolves" is a sci-fi series directed by Ridley Scott that explores themes of faith and parenting in a future divided between atheists and believers of a sun deity called Sol. The story follows two androids, Mother and Father, who attempt to create a new human society on a distant planet, raising six children. However, only one child, Campion, survives, leading to questions about their parenting abilities. Meanwhile, a human couple, Marcus and Sue, have a complicated backstory involving their escape from Earth and their relationship with a boy named Paul, whom they raise under false identities.
The series is ambitious but can feel convoluted and emotionally cold. It requires viewers to engage deeply with its themes of belief and doubt but struggles to create strong emotional connections with its characters. The first two episodes serve as a prologue, with the real story gaining momentum in later episodes. Overall, "Raised by Wolves" is a unique and thought-provoking sci-fi experience, though its impact may vary for different viewers.
90.A Guide Dog for the Face-Blind(A Guide Dog for the Face-Blind)
Summary: A Guide Dog for the Face-Blind
The text discusses the challenges faced by individuals with prosopagnosia, or face-blindness, a condition where people struggle to recognize faces. The author reflects on their personal experience with this condition and how it affects social interactions, especially in changing contexts. They mention using alternative identifiers like hairstyle and voice to recognize people.
The author highlights the need for technological support, similar to a "guide dog," to help those with face-blindness. This could include an app that records biometric data (like photos and voice samples) and tracks interactions to aid memory. The need for such tools is also relevant for other sensory impairments, like color blindness and difficulties in recognizing emotions.
The text emphasizes that the issues faced by prosopagnosics are not unique but are part of a broader challenge of cognitive overload that everyone experiences. It advocates for discreet technological solutions that can enhance recognition and memory without being intrusive, pointing to projects like Positron from ASIMOV Protocol as promising examples.
91.A Sinclair ZX81 retro web assembler+simulator(A Sinclair ZX81 retro web assembler+simulator)
The activity is enjoyable, and I wouldn't have done it without the help of Claude, which made things faster. You can find more information at this link: Sinclaude Simulator.
92.PHP compile time generics: yay or nay?(PHP compile time generics: yay or nay?)
No summary available.
93.UI vs. API. vs. UAI(UI vs. API. vs. UAI)
Josh Beckman discusses the evolution of interfaces in applications, focusing on three types: User Interface (UI), Application Programmable Interface (API), and User Agent Interface (UAI).
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User Interface (UI): Initially designed for human users, focusing on usability and design patterns to make applications user-friendly.
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Application Programmable Interface (API): Developed to allow different applications to interact with each other, with a focus on making it easy for developers to integrate functionalities.
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User Agent Interface (UAI): A newer concept that has emerged with the rise of intelligent agents (like LLMs) that perform tasks for humans. It involves designing interfaces that can communicate effectively with these agents.
Beckman emphasizes that all three interfaces should be considered equally important in application development. When adding features, developers must ensure that they are accessible and understandable across all interfaces without compromising the overall application logic. For instance, if a new feature restricts certain dates, this logic should be centralized in the application rather than implemented separately in each interface. This way, both UI and UAI can access and present the information appropriately for their contexts.
In summary, Beckman advocates for a cohesive approach to interface design that prioritizes consistency and clarity across UI, API, and UAI.
94.The enduring puzzle of static electricity(The enduring puzzle of static electricity)
No summary available.
95.US influencer stranded in Antarctica after landing plane without permission(US influencer stranded in Antarctica after landing plane without permission)
Ethan Guo, a teenage influencer from the US, is stranded in Antarctica after landing his plane without permission. He aimed to be the youngest person to fly solo to all seven continents while raising funds for childhood cancer research. However, he provided false information about his flight plans and landed in Chilean territory, which led to an investigation.
Guo was initially charged with giving false information and unauthorized landing, but a judge recently dropped the charges in exchange for a $30,000 donation to a children's cancer foundation. He must also leave Chile when possible and cannot return for three years.
Since being charged, Guo has been staying at a military base but hasn't been able to leave due to harsh winter conditions. He is currently seeking approval to fly out and continue his mission. He is responsible for all costs related to his aircraft and his stay in Chile.
96.Claude Code IDE integration for Emacs(Claude Code IDE integration for Emacs)
Summary of Claude Code IDE for Emacs
Overview:
Claude Code IDE integrates with Emacs using the Model Context Protocol (MCP), allowing Claude to utilize Emacs features like project management and custom functions. This makes Claude a knowledgeable AI assistant within your Emacs setup.
Key Features:
- Automatic Project Detection: Recognizes projects and manages sessions seamlessly.
- Terminal Integration: Full color support with vterm or eat.
- IDE Integration: Implements MCP for enhanced interactions.
- Tool Support: Facilitates file operations and workspace info.
- Diagnostics Integration: Works with Flycheck and Flymake for error checking.
- Enhanced Context Awareness: Tracks file selections and buffer states.
- Multi-Project Support: Allows multiple Claude instances for different projects.
Installation Requirements:
- Emacs version 28.1 or higher.
- Claude Code CLI must be installed.
- vterm or eat package for terminal support.
Basic Usage:
Use the command M-x claude-code-ide-menu
to access all commands. Key commands include starting Claude, sending prompts, and managing sessions.
Configuration Options:
- Customize the terminal backend (vterm or eat).
- Adjust window placement and dimensions for Claude's interface.
- Set custom system prompts and additional CLI flags.
Diagnostics and Debugging: Supports both Flycheck and Flymake for diagnostics and provides options for enabling debug mode for better tracking of operations.
Custom Tools: Users can create custom Emacs functions and expose them to Claude for specialized tasks, enhancing the IDE's capabilities.
License:
Licensed under the GNU General Public License v3.0 or later.
Trademark Notice:
Claude® is a registered trademark of Anthropic, PBC.
97.A CT scanner reveals surprises inside the 386 processor's ceramic package(A CT scanner reveals surprises inside the 386 processor's ceramic package)
Ken Shirriff's blog discusses the intricate details of the Intel 386 processor, which was released in 1985 as the first 32-bit chip in the x86 series. The processor is housed in a 132-pin ceramic package that, upon undergoing a 3-D CT scan, reveals complex internal wiring not visible from the outside. The scan shows six layers of wiring, including nearly invisible metal wires and two separate power and ground networks for input/output (I/O) and logic circuitry.
The packaging process of the 386 chip is detailed, describing how flexible ceramic sheets are used to create a rigid structure, layered with gold for electrical connections. The chip's design addresses power management issues by separating I/O and logic power supplies, which helps prevent electrical interference.
Additionally, the blog highlights the evolution of Intel's packaging technology, noting that the 386's ceramic package was a significant improvement over earlier designs. The article concludes that modern processors are even more complex, suggesting that many secrets remain hidden within their packages. The full details, including visuals from the CT scans, are available for further exploration.
98.Free SVG Icons – Browse, customize, and grab icons(Free SVG Icons – Browse, customize, and grab icons)
The text is about a platform where you can find and download free SVG icons. It offers a large selection of icons from various open-source libraries. Users can search for icons and explore popular collections curated by top designers.
99.Curious about the training data of OpenAI's new GPT-OSS models? I was too(Curious about the training data of OpenAI's new GPT-OSS models? I was too)
No summary available.
100.Apache Iceberg V3 Spec new features for more efficient and flexible data lakes(Apache Iceberg V3 Spec new features for more efficient and flexible data lakes)
Summary of Apache Iceberg v3 Updates
Apache Iceberg v3 introduces significant improvements to enhance the performance and usability of data lakes, addressing challenges in managing large datasets. Here are the key updates:
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Efficient Row-Level Transactions:
- Iceberg v3 uses binary deletion vectors, which attach a bitmap to data files. This allows the query engine to quickly identify and skip deleted rows, improving query performance compared to previous models that relied on separate delete logs.
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Simplified Schema Evolution:
- Adding new columns to large tables is now easier and faster. Iceberg v3 allows default values to be defined in the metadata, enabling instantaneous updates without needing to rewrite existing data files.
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Enhanced Query Engine Compatibility:
- V3 introduces advanced features like row-level lineage for better auditing, and richer data types, including support for semi-structured data and higher precision timestamps.
Overall, these enhancements make data operations faster and more flexible, blurring the lines between data lakes and traditional data warehouses. The Apache Iceberg community continues to innovate, paving the way for future data architecture improvements.